A roundup of female enka singers in their 20s: The young divas of the enka world
When it comes to enka, the long-established veteran singers are, of course, very popular, but in recent years younger singers have also been gaining attention.
In this article, we’ll be introducing a whole lineup of female enka singers in their 20s!
Some have been active since their teens, some are former idols, and others are still balancing idol activities alongside their enka careers—there’s a wide variety of backgrounds.
Each has her own unique charm, from performance style to vocal tone, so be sure to take your time and listen to their songs.
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Summary of female enka singers in their 20s: The young divas of the enka world (11–20)
nagai anju
Anju Nagai made her mark as the leader of Enka Joshi Lupinus-gumi, an idol group that drew attention for its unexpected combination of enka and idol pop.
Under the slogan “Enka to the world,” they began activities in 2015, and by 2019 the group had successfully completed a total of 28 overseas performances.
Their stages—where emotionally rich vocals featuring traditional enka kobushi blended beautifully with charming costumes—were truly unforgettable.
Many people were surely captivated by the way they opened a new door for enka.
fireworksŌtsuka Marina
Many people were likely stunned by the singing voice that appeared at the NHK Nodo Jiman Champion Tournament while she was still a junior high school student.
Marina Otsuka, from Saitama Prefecture, is a bona fide talent who has been blossoming since childhood.
The striking contrast between her delicate appearance and a powerful voice that belies her age is a perfect match, gripping listeners’ hearts and never letting go.
In her 2019 debut song, “Itsuwari no Kamen” (False Mask), she masterfully conveys a dramatic worldview.
Lovers of classic enka, as well as those seeking fresh talent, will surely be drawn into her voice.
Yūki Shiori
Shiori Yuki raced through two worlds: enka and idols.
After graduating from a voice-acting vocational school, she joined Enka Joshi Lupinus-gumi in January 2016 and gained popularity as the group’s “princess,” known for her adorable hime cut.
The group performed songs such as techno-style arrangements of classic enka hits, and their innovative approach drew attention.
Their first album, Yatto Deta, released in March 2016, is a collection that encapsulates their bold endeavors.
Why not experience this new musical world for yourself?
Mabuchi Kyoko
Many of you were likely astonished by her dynamic career spanning both the worlds of enka and idols.
Kyoko Mabuchi began her activities in 2018 with the group Enka Joshi Lupinus.
As a group, they actively performed overseas, and their solo concert in Jakarta drew around 2,000 attendees, demonstrating significant popularity.
You can hear her vocals on releases from her group era, such as the album “Happy In The Dark.” She then went on to join Aicong, a group produced by Tetsuya Komuro, and even became the CEO of her agency—her drive shows no signs of slowing.
She’s the perfect artist for those seeking new entertainment that transcends the boundaries of enka.
Kurose Honomi
Honami Kurose brought a fresh breeze to the enka world with the unexpected combination of enka and idol culture.
She joined Enka Joshi Lupinus-gumi in 2017 and drew attention with a groundbreaking style of singing and dancing enka over techno sounds.
Her naturally soaring vocals and the charming contrast with her cute persona are irresistibly appealing.
She’s the perfect artist for anyone looking to explore a new way of enjoying music that overturns the traditional image of enka.
Ichinose Airi
Airi Ichinose, who served as a bridge between enka and idol music.
Since debuting in 2015 with the group Enka Joshi Lupinus-gumi, she has captivated many audiences with a depth of expression unimaginable for someone so young.
Their sound—an exquisite blend of traditional, vibrato-rich enka and an exhilarating techno beat—has a singular charm.
And the album Saigo, released digitally when she graduated from the group, is a single disc packed with her journey.
Thinking of her commanding presence on stages around the world, carrying the soul of enka in her heart, may well make your chest tighten with emotion.
In conclusion
I’ve introduced some female enka singers currently in their 20s.
There are artists who have been active since their teens and others who used to be in idol groups—quite a variety of backgrounds.
Each of them has a different kind of appeal from the veteran greats, so please take this opportunity to listen to their songs.